The mouth plays a central role serving as a gateway that connects to various systems throughout the body. Dr. Alireza Panahpour, a Systemic Dentist known for his integrative approach, advocates for a shift in perspective: one that recognizes oral health as essential to overall well-being, rather than a separate entity.
“Why exclude the mouth from medical care?” asks Dr. Panahpour, raising questions about the long-standing divide between dental and medical insurance coverage. His approach to systemic dentistry emphasizes the interconnectedness of oral and physical health, particularly in managing chronic conditions where inflammation or infection may be a shared factor.
To illustrate this point, Dr. Panahpour points to anatomical models and digital tools like 3D apps (e.g., Visible Body), which clearly demonstrate how dental structures interact with other systems, including the nervous, cardiovascular, and lymphatic systems. From jaw alignment to the proximity of oral tissues to major nerves and vessels, the mouth’s relationship to the body is both direct and complex.
Dr. Panahpour also highlights several examples from his practice where dental conditions have coincided with broader health challenges. For instance, he raises concerns about dental amalgam fillings that contain mercury, though approved for use by many dental associations, some practitioners advocate for their removal based on individual sensitivity or patient preference. Likewise, unresolved infections from root canals or improperly healed tooth extractions, such as cavitations, have been associated in some studies with systemic inflammation, though more research is needed to establish consistent links.
He also touches on the role of public water fluoridation, encouraging open discussion about its long-term effects while recognizing its widely endorsed benefits in reducing dental decay. Dr. Panahpour advocates for personalized care strategies, especially for patients seeking holistic or alternative approaches.
What unites these perspectives is a call for greater integration: a view of health that does not silo the mouth from the rest of the body. Dr. Panahpour envisions a healthcare future where collaboration between medical and dental professionals is standard, allowing patients to benefit from more comprehensive care.
Through his clinical experience and advocacy, Dr. Panahpour continues to push for a model of care that reflects the true complexity of human health. His message is clear: when we treat the mouth and body as interconnected, we unlock new possibilities for healing and wellness.
Learn more about Dr. Alireza Panahpour, visit his official website.
